MTV lived up to its promise of paying “a tribute like no other to a performer like no other” with not one superstar, but two. Madonna opened the VMAs with a heartfelt speech remembering her colleague and one-time friend, followed by an elaborate set by today’s top choreographers, including Tina Landon, Laurie Ann Gibson, and Cris Judd. Janet Jackson brought tears to Radio City by performing “Scream,” her duet with her late brother.